Rybak Might Compromise On Insurance Legislator Could Support Casey's Plan For Reform

January 10, 1990|by PAUL WIRTH, The Morning Call

State Rep. William Rybak, chairman of the House Insurance Committee, said yesterday that he would support Gov. Robert Casey's anticipated auto insurance reform compromise if it addresses the major points raised in Rybak's own six-bill reform proposal.

Rybak said he might even accept Casey's plan allowing drivers to limit their rights to sue in exchange for lower rates, if the rest of the governor's package covers such "crucial" insurance issues as rising health-care costs, insurance fraud, uninsured motorists and frivolous lawsuits.

"I don't like it," Rybak said, referring to a plan to have drivers sign a waiver limiting their right to sue after an accident. "But, if that's what it takes, so long as all the other points are covered, I will support it."

Casey has been meeting with leaders in the House and Senate to get a compromise reform plan ready for consideration when lawmakers return to Harrisburg later this month, Rybak said. Rybak said he has not participated in the between-session negotiations.

Changing laws that govern automobile insurance has been a top priority in Harrisburg for some time. Legislators have pushed various plans while groups like the insurance industry and the trial lawyers association have lobbied for their own special interests. The last legislative session ended without agreement on a reform package.

"It's a multifaceted problem that needs a multifaceted answer," said Rybak in a press conference in Bethlehem's Town Hall. He said some Philadelphia car owners pay up to $3,000 a year to insure one vehicle.

"Comprehensive auto insurance reform is finally within our grasp," said Rybak. He predicted that a reform package would come up for a vote by late January or early February.

The Bethlehem lawmaker, who represents the 135th Legislative District, also put in a plug for his proposal to establish a 13-member Citizens Insurance Advisory Council to oversee state Insurance Department operations.

"The council would let the sun shine in on insurance regulation," Rybak said.